We had the good fortune of connecting with BAKER and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi BAKER, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Hmm, What makes me happy? That’s a great question. Lately, being in my own world & element makes me happy. Being able to be 100% my authentic, whimsical self. A creative being in all aspects of this world makes me smile. Why? Because this world can be very cruel & judgmental. I don’t have room in my castle for that. That’s something I do not enjoy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Creating any form of art brings me joy. I grew up wanting to be a fashion designer with my own fashion house. I’m still a lover of fashion & having your own personal style. I slowly fell in love with the fantasy world like Disney Princesses, Pixar, and Renaissance garments. Growing up with all brothers, the anime world came along & I found inspiration through my favorite creators Naoko Takeuchi (Sailor Moon) and Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli).

My fanart comes from my childhood & now Kidult moments. I love the fact that I can provide something unique with my own twist and style. I enjoy providing affordable pieces to like minded individuals. To see their faces light up because of something I brought to life warms my heart.

What sets me apart are my vibrant colors, crossovers and fanciful backgrounds which my brother & I call “The Baker Stroke.” I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far but there’s always more work to do. In 2022 I only applied to vendor at one comic con. I made it but set a goal to do more. In 2023 I applied to almost every con and event Memphis held for nerds & blerds alike. I surpassed my goal and attended 6+ events as an artist. This year I would like to do more.

This hasn’t been an easy journey but it’s enjoyable and worth it. As much as I love my job if I could do this full-time I’d drop my 9-5 today. It took some time but I’ve learned when you have a wonderful team behind you it’s pretty easy to accomplish your goals and challenges you’re faced with.

Studio By Baker is for all. Hope to see you at the next Con!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Omg my FK is visiting, I’m so excited!!! For starters, Breakfast/Brunch options would have to be The Toasted Yolk Café, The Liquor Store or The Arcade Restaurant. I would love to take her to Midtown, Downtown to hear some live music like Courtney Little. Love for Melodic Mondays has been a treat.

She’s pretty active so I’m thinking High Point Climbing and Fitness or my new fav Muse-The Adventure Museum. We could always have a picnic at Shelby Farms.

It’s a must to check out a Grizzlies game. FK is from St. Louis, so a Memphis Redbirds game would be much appreciated at Autozone Park. If there’s a comic con we’re definitely there.

For dinner there has to be vegan options for my gem so it’s only right we stop by Rawgirls, Imagine Vegan Café and Global Café. I totally wish I could get her to try our BBQ spots like Tops, Blues City or Central BBQ.

This week would be a dream.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a few gems that deserve credit & recognition in my story. First my parents for passing down the talent I have inside. K.D. I appreciate you two so much. My Big Papa for always putting up with me & lending such a great helping hand anytime I need it. “The Brothers” for being an amazing support system to their only sister. My brother KB & S.I.L Fonville who are always on the left & right of me at every event. I promise I wouldn’t want to or couldn’t do it without you two.
Friends!!! I love you all so much. My besties who help guide me when needed, you’re much appreciated.
When it comes to cosplaying, inspiration & words of wisdom, I couldn’t do it without Big Blair Energy behind the lens. Ashanti Blair I’m forever grateful.
Last but never least in my life, everyone who has ever supported my art in anyway. I truly am grateful that you all allow me to share my world with you. Thank you kindly.
-Baker

Instagram: StudioByBaker | Aletterfrombaker

Facebook: StudioByBaker

Image Credits
Ashanti Blair – Shun B Images Katie – Vibe Visuals Video

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